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Public Transportation

Public Transportation

Provence, France

RTM: Metro, Tram & Bus

The RTM network features two Metro lines, three Tram lines, and an extensive Bus network. This integrated system covers the city and its surrounding areas.

The metro traverses the city center quickly, while trams offer scenic exploration. Buses access areas not served by rail and extend to Calanques entry points. A small ferry crosses the Vieux-Port, with seasonal boat shuttles to beaches.

System Breakdown

  • Metro (M1 & M2): Quick movement east-west (M1) and north-south (M2), connecting hubs like Vieux-Port and Gare Saint-Charles.
  • Tramway (T1, T2, T3): A more scenic way to explore, with stops often close to points of interest.
  • Bus Network: Extensive coverage for areas not reached by metro/tram, including night lines (FluoBus) and Calanques access.
  • Ferry Boat (Navette Maritime): Small ferry crosses the Vieux-Port; seasonal shuttles to Pointe Rouge and L'Estaque.

Route Maps & Hubs

Detailed route maps are at metro stations and RTM agencies. Major hubs include Gare Saint-Charles, Vieux-Port, and Castellane. Google Maps or Citymapper aid real-time planning.

Hours & Frequency

Metro operates 5 AM to 1 AM daily (later Fri/Sat). Peak hours (weekdays) mean 3-5 min frequency; off-peak 10-15 min. Tram/bus hours vary, typically 5 AM to 9/10 PM.

Accessibility

RTM continuously upgrades accessibility. Newer trams and buses feature low-floors. Metro Line M1 is generally more accessible than M2. Contact RTM for station details.

Ticketing & Efficiency Tips

Fare Options & Purchase
  • Single Journey Ticket: €1.80, valid for one hour, with transfers.
  • 10-Trip Card: €14, featuring a per-ride discount.
  • 24-Hour Pass: €5.20, unlimited travel for 24 hours.
  • 72-Hour Pass: €10.80, unlimited travel for 72 hours.
  • Purchase: Metro machines, RTM agencies, tabacs. Contactless payment is possible on buses/trams.
Navigation Advice
  • RTM App: Use the official RTM app or Google Maps for real-time information.
  • Multi-Day Pass: Consider a 24-hour or 72-hour pass for extensive public transport use.
  • City Pass Inclusion: Marseille City Pass includes unlimited public transport, if attractions are also on your list.
  • Walk Often: Marseille's city center is walkable; exploration on foot makes discovery possible.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing: On-Demand Transit

Taxi ID

White vehicles with a 'Taxi' sign on the roof and an internal meter.

Hailing

Hail on street (green light) or at designated stands (Gare Saint-Charles, Vieux-Port).

Airport Fares

MRS to city center typically €50-€60 (day), €60-€70 (night/weekend).

City Fares

Within city, short distances typically €10-€20. Cash and cards are accepted.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient, on-demand transport, specifically useful for late-night travel or when carrying luggage.

Apps & Verification

  • Uber: Operates in Marseille, book rides through the app. Availability varies.
  • Bolt: Another ride-sharing service available, often with competitive pricing.
  • Verification: Always verify driver's name, vehicle model, and license plate number.
  • Airport Arrangements: Dedicated taxi stands at MRS and Gare Saint-Charles main exits.

Safety Measures

  • Licensed Taxis: Generally a safe option. Make certain the taxi is clearly marked.
  • Unlicensed Taxis: Avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis to prevent inflated prices or unsafe rides.
  • Night Travel: For late-night travel, licensed options are most sound.
  • Fare Estimates: Ride-sharing apps feature fare estimates before ride confirmation.

Rental Options: Independent Exploration

  • Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Budget, Enterprise at MRS and city locations.
  • Requirements: Valid domestic license, IDP (if needed), credit card in main driver's name for deposit.
  • Booking: Book in advance, specifically during peak season, for availability and better rates.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right, seatbelts mandatory, strict speed limits (50 urban, 130 motorways).
  • Parking: Difficult and expensive in city center. Underground garages offer secure options.
  • City Traffic: Challenging due to narrow streets, heavy traffic, and many scooters/motorcycles.

Specialty Rentals

Motorcycle & Scooter

Several specialized rental shops in Marseille offer motorcycles and scooters. These can be a nimble way to navigate city traffic or explore coastal roads.

Bicycle Sharing Le Vélo

Marseille's public bike-sharing program, "Le Vélo," has numerous stations across the city. You can rent a bicycle for short periods. Registration is usually necessary.

Private Bicycle Rentals

Numerous private shops feature bicycle rentals, including electric bikes (VTT Électrique), which are useful for tackling Marseille's hills or exploring the Calanques.

Walking & Cycling: Exploring on Foot

Marseille features several areas that delight exploration on foot, alongside evolving cycling infrastructure.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

  • Vieux-Port: Wide promenades, perfect for strolling, enjoying cafes, and observing boats.
  • Le Panier: Narrow, winding pedestrian streets. Charming area for artisan shops, street art. Expect hills.
  • La Corniche Kennedy: Scenic coastal road with wide sidewalks, views of Mediterranean and islands.
  • Parc Borély: Large 17th-century park in the south, ideal for leisurely walks and green spaces.

Walking Tours & Safety

  • Guided Tours: Numerous guided walking tours focus on history or food. Self-guided tours use tourist office maps or apps.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Increasing dedicated bike lanes. Network not as extensive as other European cities.
  • Cycling Safety: Remain vigilant. Helmets are recommended, though not legally required for adults.
  • No-go Areas: Exercise caution in heavy traffic areas, isolated industrial zones, or certain northern districts after dark. Calanques trails can be challenging.

Specialized Transport: Unique Ways to Move

Tour Buses & Hop-on-Hop-off

Companies like Colorbus operate hop-on-hop-off bus tours. These double-decker buses follow routes that cover major attractions like the Vieux-Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, MuCEM, and Palais du Pharo.

They feature commentary and make exploration at your own pace possible.

Water Transportation

The small, free ferry crossing the Vieux-Port features a charming and practical way to get from one side of the harbor to the other.

Seasonal boat shuttles depart from the Vieux-Port to coastal areas like Pointe Rouge and L'Estaque.

Calanques Boat Tours

Numerous boat tours depart from the Vieux-Port or the nearby town of Cassis, giving scenic cruises through the Calanques National Park.

These range from short tours to full-day excursions.

Unique Local Transport

Petit Train de Marseille
  • A popular tourist-oriented ride.
  • Departs from the Vieux-Port and takes passengers on a scenic route.
  • Includes an uphill journey to Notre-Dame de la Garde, giving a convenient way to reach the panoramic viewpoint.
No Cable Cars or Funiculars
  • Marseille does not have cable cars or funiculars as part of its public transport system.
  • However, the RTM public transport network continuously upgrades accessibility.
  • Newer tram and bus models have low-floors and ramps for easier access.

Safety Zones: Areas to Note

  • Heavy Traffic: Some major roads or areas with heavy traffic can be less pleasant for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Industrial Zones: Avoid isolated industrial or commercial zones, specifically at night.
  • Poorly Lit Areas: Avoid walking alone in poorly lit or deserted areas after dark.
  • Crowded Spots: Remain cautious in very crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing might occur.
  • Specific Neighborhoods: Some parts of La Canebière late at night, or certain northern districts (quartiers nord), are known for higher crime rates.
  • Calanques Trails: Can be challenging, with steep and rocky sections. Inexperienced hikers should stick to well-marked paths and wear proper footwear.
  • Fire Season: Some Calanques areas might be restricted during fire risk season; check daily.
  • Unlicensed Services: Avoid unmarked or unlicensed taxis; they might charge inflated prices or pose a safety risk.

Walking & Cycling: Exploring on Foot

Marseille features several areas that delight exploration on foot, alongside evolving cycling infrastructure.

Pedestrian-Friendly Zones

  • Vieux-Port: Wide promenades, perfect for strolling, enjoying cafes, and observing boats.
  • Le Panier: Narrow, winding pedestrian streets. Charming area for artisan shops, street art. Expect hills.
  • La Corniche Kennedy: Scenic coastal road with wide sidewalks, views of Mediterranean and islands.
  • Parc Borély: Large 17th-century park in the south, ideal for leisurely walks and green spaces.

Walking Tours & Safety

  • Guided Tours: Numerous guided walking tours focus on history or food. Self-guided tours use tourist office maps or apps.
  • Bicycle Infrastructure: Increasing dedicated bike lanes. Network not as extensive as other European cities.
  • Cycling Safety: Remain vigilant. Helmets are recommended, though not legally required for adults.
  • No-go Areas: Exercise caution in heavy traffic areas, isolated industrial zones, or certain northern districts after dark. Calanques trails can be challenging.

Specialized Transport: Unique Ways to Move

Tour Buses & Hop-on-Hop-off

Companies like Colorbus operate hop-on-hop-off bus tours. These double-decker buses follow routes that cover major attractions like the Vieux-Port, Notre-Dame de la Garde, MuCEM, and Palais du Pharo.

  • They feature commentary.
  • Make exploration at your own pace possible.
  • Routes traverse points of interest.
Water Transportation

The small, free ferry crossing the Vieux-Port features a charming and practical way to get from one side of the harbor to the other.

  • Seasonal boat shuttles.
  • From Vieux-Port to Pointe Rouge (beaches).
  • And L'Estaque (fishing village).
Calanques Boat Tours

Numerous boat tours depart from the Vieux-Port or the nearby town of Cassis, giving scenic cruises through the Calanques National Park.

  • Range from short tours.
  • To full-day excursions.
  • Features stunning coastal views.

Unique Local Transport

Petit Train de Marseille
  • A popular tourist-oriented ride.
  • Departs from the Vieux-Port, takes passengers on a scenic route.
  • Includes an uphill journey to Notre-Dame de la Garde.
No Cable Cars or Funiculars
  • Marseille lacks cable cars or funiculars as part of its public transport system.
  • However, the RTM public transport network continuously upgrades accessibility.
  • Newer tram and bus models have low-floors and ramps for easier access.

Getting Around Smartly

Marseille features a spectrum of transport options for diverse needs and preferences. Tailoring your choices to your itinerary and comfort elevates your exploration.

A mix of walking, public transport, and occasional specialized services gives the best experience.

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